How do I register for NHIF?

Registering for the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) in Kenya is a straightforward process that provides access to affordable healthcare coverage for you and your dependents. Whether self-employed, employed, or voluntary, anyone over 18 and ordinarily resident in Kenya can join via online portals, mobile apps, USSD, or in-person visits.

Eligibility and Required Documents

Kenyan citizens and residents over 18 qualify for NHIF, including self-employed individuals, employed persons, and voluntary contributors under the National Health Scheme (NHS or “UHC Supacover”). Gather these essentials beforehand: a copy of your National ID (and spouse’s if applicable), recent colored passport-sized photos for yourself, spouse, and dependents, birth certificates for children under 18, and KES 1,500 for the initial registration fee covering the first three months (followed by KES 500 monthly).

For employed persons, include an employer introduction letter and stamped registration form. Self-employed applicants need only personal ID documents. These ensure smooth verification during biometric enrollment.

Step-by-Step Online Registration

Follow these numbered steps on the NHIF selfcare platform at nhif.or.ke or nhif.kenyaweb.com.

Create an Account: Visit the NHIF website, click “Register,” select your category (self-employed, employed, or voluntary), and enter your ID number, email, and phone to set up credentials.
Log In and Fill Details: Use your new login to access the form. Input full name, date of birth, contact info, spouse details, and up to four dependents (spouse plus children under 18).
Upload Documents: Attach scanned copies of your ID, passport photo, spouse’s ID, marriage certificate (if applicable), and dependents’ birth certificates. Ensure files are clear and in accepted formats like JPG or PDF.
Make Initial Payment: Pay KES 1,500 via M-PESA on Paybill 200222 using your ID as account number. Confirm the transaction within the portal.
Submit Application: Review all entries for accuracy, submit, and await SMS/email confirmation with your provisional NHIF number.

This process takes minutes if documents are ready.

Registration via My NHIF App

Download the free “My NHIF” app from Google Play or Apple Store for mobile convenience.

Open and Sign Up: Launch the app, select “Register,” and create an account with ID, phone, and email.
Enter Personal Info: Fill in name, DOB, contacts, and dependent details as in online method.
Upload Files: Add ID copies and photos directly from your gallery.
Pay Fee: Complete KES 1,500 payment through integrated M-PESA.
Submit and Verify: Review, submit, and note your member number for next steps.

App registration mirrors the website but offers push notifications for status updates.

USSD Registration (*155#)

No internet? Use any phone.

Dial Code: Enter *155# from Safaricom, Airtel, or Telkom lines.
Select Register: Choose NHIF registration option and membership type.
Input Details: Follow prompts for ID, name, phone, and dependents.
Confirm and Pay: Verify info, then pay KES 1,500 via prompted M-PESA details.
Get Confirmation: Receive SMS with member number.

This is ideal for quick, offline access nationwide.

In-Person Registration at NHIF Office or Huduma Centre

Visit nearest branch for hands-on help.

Locate Branch: Find via nhif.or.ke or Huduma Centres.
Fill Form: Download/print Member Registration Form (NHIF 1) or get on-site; complete with details.
Submit Documents: Present originals and copies plus payment proof.
Biometric Enrollment: Provide fingerprints—mandatory to activate membership.
Collect Card: Receive physical NHIF card post-verification (may take days).

Employers submit stamped forms here too.

Post-Registration Steps and Activation

After submission, visit an NHIF office or Huduma for biometrics within 60 days to activate—bring all documents. Membership activates post-biometrics, granting inpatient/outpatient coverage, maternity, and more under NHS Supacover. Pay KES 500 monthly via Paybill 200222 (ID as account) to stay active; check status via *155# or app.

Delays occur without biometrics. Employers remit via portal. Cards arrive later; use SMS number temporarily at hospitals.

Benefits and Tips

NHIF covers consultations, diagnostics, surgeries, and drugs at over 7,000 facilities. Initial fee secures three months; lapses incur penalties. Update details via selfcare for accuracy. For issues, call 1550 or email info@nhif.or.ke.